Call a Drunk Driving Defense Attorney Right Away
Getting charged with driving under the influence (DUI) — known in some states as driving while intoxicated (DWI) — can be frightening. You may never have been charged with a crime before. You may not know what to expect. You need legal help quickly.
At Jackson Steed, our knowledgeable DUI defense lawyers will give you accurate advice and skilled representation. Based in Atlanta, we serve clients in Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton, Henry, Fayette, Cobb, Cherokee and surrounding counties. For a free consultation, contact us today.
Fighting the Serious Consequences of DUI
The charge of DUI — which includes drunk driving but also driving under the influence of illegal drugs or prescription medication — is taken very seriously in Georgia. Even if you have never been convicted of DUI before, you could be facing consequences such as:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 24 hours
- A fine of $300 or higher
- 12 months probation, less any time actually served in jail
- Community service requirements
- Suspension of your driver's license
If you have already been convicted of DUI, a second or subsequent conviction could involve more serious penalties, including publishing of your picture in the county's legal organ or newspaper, possible use of an ignition interlock in your car, drug court programs, and long-term license suspension. If you are convicted as a habitual violator, you will have a felony on your record.
Our DUI defense attorneys will examine the facts of your arrest and negotiate with the prosecutors to try to get your charge reduced to a lesser offense like reckless driving.
Protecting Your Driver's License From Suspension
One key part of your DUI defense is to request an administrative license suspension (ALS) hearing right away. This procedure is separate from your criminal charges.
If you do not request a hearing within 10 days of your DUI arrest, your license will be suspended. Requesting a hearing buys you time and may allow us to save your license.
License suspension can have a major impact on your life. If you are caught driving while your license is suspended, you can be charged with "driving with a suspended license" which is a separate criminal offense. And once you get your license back, you may have to pay much higher insurance rates.
Our experienced DUI defense attorneys know what it takes to fight drunk driving charges in Georgia. Contact us to protect your rights and defend your license. To learn more about DUI, visit our information center.
